ABC Managing Director David Anderson has paid tribute to the life and achievements of Indigenous leader Yunupingu.
Prominent Indigenous Australian leader and land rights campaigner, Yunupingu, passed away at the age of 74 in the Northern Territory.
The Gumatj clan leader was one of Australia’s most influential Aboriginal figures, having dedicated his life to advocating for the interests of the Yolngu people and Indigenous Australians across the country.
Yunupingu was recognised for his work in negotiating on behalf of Indigenous communities in 1978, when he was awarded Australian of the Year. He played a pivotal role in the negotiations over the Ranger Uranium Mine and Kakadu National Park, advocating for Indigenous rights and land ownership.
Commenting on the passing, David Anderson issued the following statement:
“The ABC is in mourning along with the rest of Australia for the loss of Yolngu lore man and Gumatj clan leader, Yunupingu.
We have lost a remarkable leader, a guiding light for many at the ABC who were inspired by his vision and encouraged by his optimism for the future.
As a partner of the Yothu Yindi Foundation and the Garma Festival, both the ABC and its audiences have directly benefited from Yunupingu’s contribution to Australia’s cultural heritage over several decades. We are all better for his tireless work.
Yunupingu is described today as a giant among not only his people but all Australians and I could not think of a better epitaph for someone who made such an impact in their lifetime.
On behalf of the ABC, my thoughts go to Yunupingu’s family, community and all who admired and respected him.”
In addition to his advocacy work, Yunupingu served as a long-term chairman of the Northern Land Council, an organisation that represents traditional owners in the Northern Territory’s Top End. He also chaired the Yothu Yindi Foundation, which organises the annual Garma Festival.
The passing of Yunupingu is a significant loss to the Indigenous community in Australia, and his contributions to Indigenous rights and land ownership will be remembered for generations to come.
